The Steinbach Huskies presented the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba with $1,778 at their home opener against the Red River Wild on Wednesday.

Former Team Manager Brian Sawatzky says for the fundraiser he went to local businesses and asked them to donate $20 for every goal the Huskies scored against the Wild at a game in February. He says he also had local businesses pay for their ice time and the referee fees so that all of the ticket sales could also go towards the Heart and Stroke Foundation. He notes the team was able to score five goals in the game against the Wild.

Sawatzky says it is nice to show the community that the players care and want to give back. He says they chose the Heart and Stroke Foundation because they have a personal connection.

“The game happened in February and February is heart and stroke month. I did some research on different charitable organizations and I know that one of the players has a heart condition on the team so it kind of just worked out perfect.”

Sawatzky says they chose Wednesday's game to present the cheque because they played the Red River Wild which is the same team they played on the night of the fundraiser. He says it is really enjoyable to put on special events and fundraisers and it is fun to see the community come and participate.

Sean Crawford is the Director of Community Engagement for the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba. He received the donation on behalf of the foundation. He notes it was a very neat and unique fundraiser idea.

“This is amazing. During heart month in February we have many different fundraisers across the province being put on by lots of groups. This one was so unique and so exciting we had people coming out here to watch the game and help out wherever they could.”

Crawford thanks the organization and says he hopes other teams try similar fundraisers in the future.